Introduction to the Controversy: Egg fried rice, a staple of Chinese cuisine, unexpectedly became a source of intense nationalist sentiment in China. The dish, traditionally celebrated for its simplicity and flavor, is now mired in controversy, especially during October and November, related to historical events.
Chef Wang Gang’s Apology: Wang Gang, a prominent Chinese chef with a massive online following, faced fierce criticism over his egg fried rice cooking video posted on Weibo on November 27. In response to the backlash, Wang issued a “solemn apology,” stating, “As a chef, I will never make egg fried rice again.” This was an attempt to pacify the outrage from nationalists who accused him of mocking a sensitive historical figure.
Historical Context of the Controversy: The controversy revolves around Mao Anying, the eldest son of Mao Zedong, who perished in an American air strike during the Korean War on November 25, 1950. Nationalists believe that any mention of egg fried rice near the anniversary of Mao Anying’s death or his birthday on October 24 is disrespectful. A disputed account suggests that Mao Anying’s decision to cook egg fried rice exposed his location to enemy forces, leading to his death, although this narrative has been officially refuted by Chinese authorities.
Government’s Stance on Historical Narratives: Under President Xi Jinping, China has implemented strict laws against questioning or slandering national heroes. In 2018, a law was passed criminalizing the slander of “heroes and martyrs,” with offenses punishable by imprisonment. For instance, journalist Luo Changping faced legal consequences for his online comments about soldiers from a Korean War battle.
Official Denials and Public Response: Despite the government’s efforts to debunk the egg fried rice story linked to Mao Anying, the narrative persists in some online circles. November 25 is informally recognized by some netizens as the “Egg Fried Rice Festival” or “Chinese Thanksgiving,” reflecting an alternative view of Chinese history.
The incident involving Wang Gang highlights the complexities and sensitivities surrounding historical narratives in China. The chef’s decision to withdraw from cooking a beloved dish underscores the power of nationalist sentiment and the challenges faced by public figures in navigating historical controversies in modern China. This episode also reflects the broader tension between freedom of expression and adherence to official historical accounts.